Business Description
Requirements for EV Charger Installation
Each charger ‘should’ have its own socket outlet and be on its own circuit.
As many consumer incoming mains are in the 35A to 50A range, even one added 16A charging socket-outlet can cause an overload. So, when an EV charging point is added, the electrician should do a maximum demand assessment. This can mean a consumer mains upgrade.
It may also go further, requiring upgrading of the distributor lead-in from the street, especially if there is more than one EV and they are on separate socket outlets, as in AS/NZS 3000 Appendix P. Switchboard upgrading or replacement may result, and additional AS/NZS 3000 requirements may apply.
Residential Installations
For residential installations with PV there may be some benefit when charging an EV. However, as most cars used for travel to work or used at work will be away during the day, this may not be a solution unless a battery system is installed.
These issues may be exacerbated for those living beyond a city or large town, where the poles and wires may be able to carry only small loads. In such cases, other solutions – including batteries – may have to be considered.
Some retailers may off er tariff reductions, but this can require an extra meter, changing to a smart meter, extra switching or extra meter panel space.
Again it could mean a total switchboard replacement, and other AS/NZS 3000 requirements – such as more residual current devices (RCDs) – may apply.
Also, it is important to note that every point in the charging, discharging and inverter system circuits will involve losses of around 10% at each step and where this involves metered power, these losses will automatically be included in the home occupier’s electricity bill.
All of this offers great opportunities for electrical contractors keen to get involved and become known as EV specialists including;
installation of socket-outlets and/ or chargers for every residentially-homed EV
possible upgrading of consumer mains and power supply in-feeds from the street; and,
possible upgrading or replacement of switchboards, meter panels and RCDs.
Business Hours
Monday : 09:00 - 17:00
Tuesday : 09:00 - 17:00
Wednesday : 09:00 - 17:00
Thursday : 09:00 - 17:00
Friday : 09:00 - 17:00
Saturday - Closed
Sunday - Closed